Tuesday, August 25, 2009

The new Mazda6 line-up has been expanded with two new body styles and two all-new diesel engines. The elegant hatchback Mazda6 Sport will appeal to customers looking for a more sporty model, while the stylish Mazda6 Wagon will appeal to drivers who put a premium on spaciousness and interior flexibility. The two diesel drivetrains represent state-of-the-art diesel technology, while offering the optimal combination of driving pleasure and low fuel consumption.

Launched in April this year, the new Mazda6 Sedan appeals to European drivers with its dynamic design, sporty handling characteristics and spacious interior. Now Mazda is adding to this with the racy hatchback Mazda6 Sport and the spacious Wagon. These additions to the Mazda6 range demonstrate that the Japanese manufacturer is focusing intensively on the individual tastes and specific requirements of European drivers.

The exterior design of the two new body styles shows the close affinity with the existing Sedan version. The new models have the distinctive Mazda face, with an expressive five-point grille, striking air intake openings in the front bumper spoiler and elegantly thin headlamps with clear glass. Seen from the side, the new Mazda6 Sport does its name justice. The acute angle of the back window and the elegant profile of the C-pillar give the car a dynamic look, and make for a lower and more sporty appearance. The new Mazda6 Wagon symbolises sportiness in another form, with a relatively acute rear window line and blackened B-pillars to give the car an elegant yet sporty appearance, despite its spacious cabin. The rear of both models is dominated by the clear glass lamp assembly, of similar design to the front headlamps. These wrap around into the side panels and provide a fluid optical link between the boot trim and the rear fender.

The interior of both models is also designed in typical Mazda6 style. The passenger and luggage compartments are larger than their sporty exteriors might indicate. The driver and passengers can enjoy comfortable and stress-free driving on long trips due to the use of tasteful, high-quality materials, the aesthetic yet functional styling of the instruments, plus the firm, comfortable and lavishly constructed seats.

The luggage compartments of both new models are extremely large, with outstanding capacities of 492 litres for the Mazda6 Sport and 505 litres for the Mazda6 Wagon. Both versions are fitted with Mazda's unique "Karakuri" rear seat system, which rapidly folds the rear seats into a level load floor. This is operated by a lever inside the luggage compartment, which releases the backrests. The seats automatically drop down and the backrests fold over them, without the headrests having to be removed.

The large boot volume is in part the result of the patented Mazda E-type multilink rear axle. Its compact design not only saves space but provides both new Mazda6 models - in combination with the double A-arm front axle design - with excellent roadholding qualities. A wide track width and low centre of gravity ensure sporty handling, while precise steering provides excellent road feedback, whether on the motorway or on twisting country roads. Powerful and efficient brakes enhance both models' handling characteristics, and make Mazda6 Sport and Wagon two of the best cars in their class for braking deceleration.

The two other significant developments can be found under the bonnet of all three body styles - for there are now two modern diesel drivetrains available, in addition to the three aluminium alloy four-cylinder petrol engines, which have been available since the launch of the Mazda6 Sedan. Both are two-litre second generation common-rail direct injection engines - one with a power output of 89 kW/121 hp while the high power version delivers 100 kW/136 hp. Both engines have four valves per cylinder and combine the classic strengths of a diesel engine (low fuel consumption, high torque at low engine speeds) with characteristics normally associated with petrol engines (lively driving performance, driving comfort, operating smoothness, low emissions). Both diesel engines achieve Euro Stage III emissions ratings.

The existing double overhead cam petrol engines have four valves per cylinder, and come in three displacements: the 1.8-litre produces 88 kW/120 hp, the 2.0-litre 104 kW/141 hp, and the 2.3-litre 122 kw/166 hp. Like the Mazda6 Sedan, the new Sport and Wagon models are available with an optional four-speed automatic transmission for the 2.0-litre petrol version.

Safety features for both new Mazda6 body styles are equal to those of the Sedan. Crash protection is provided by an extremely rigid passenger cell with an ingenious structural design for the distribution and absorption of impact energy; while passive safety features include airbags, side airbags in the front, and head and shoulder airbags to protect driver and passengers in case of side impact.

Mazda6 Wagon - The Name Says it All

The new Mazda6 Wagon is certainly not a conservatively practical wagon with angular styling; it is a stylish, spacious and versatile vehicle that embodies the sporty and dynamic qualities for which the new Mazda6 has rapidly become known.

The sporty elegance of the Mazda6 Wagon can immediately be seen at the front of the vehicle, with its racy five-point grille, the striking air intake openings in the front bumper spoiler and the elegantly thin headlamps with clear glass. Seen from the side, the car has an especially sporty appearance. The distinctive swage line forms a transition from the powerful lower body design to the delicately-formed upper body. Despite the fact that the wagon is 20 mm longer than the Sedan and Sport versions, the soft fall of the extended roof line, combined with blackened B-pillar, lends Mazda6's Wagon a highly elegant and dynamic appearance. The rear end of the car is dominated, as in the other models, by the rear lamps. These are similar in design to the front headlamps and wrap around into the side body and form an visual link between the boot trim panel and the rear side panelling.

The passenger compartment has been designed in typical Mazda6 style. The stylish cockpit, with its large, dial-type speedometer and tachometer and silver titanium-look centre console gives just as dynamic an impression as the outer design. Interior spaciousness, combined with high-quality materials, create a luxurious ambience. The seats are firm and comfortable on long trips, while drivers who exploit the dynamic qualities of the new Mazda6 Wagon, will appreciate the strong side support of the seats and the seatbacks, which give plenty of lateral support to driver and passengers during hard cornering.

The luggage compartment is also well equipped to handle cornering. To prevent luggage or other articles from sliding around in the boot, the Mazda6 Wagon comes with eight integrated hooks, to which cargo of all sizes can easily be secured. Despite its sporty appearance, this vehicle is not one of those "lifestyle" wagons that have a hatchback but little load space. The Mazda6 Wagon offers class-leading boot capacity of 505 litres plus outstanding versatility due to the Karakuri seat-folding system. This provides a level load floor that is 1906 mm long and 1365 mm wide, with over a metre of load space between the wheel wells. Loaded to the roof, the Mazda6 Wagon has a volume of 1712 litres.

The more-than-ample volume of the luggage compartment is in part due to the extremely compact E-type multilink rear axle system which, combined with the double A-arm front suspension, delivers excellent roadholding capability. The new Mazda6 Wagon's wide track width and low centre of gravity guarantee sporty handling, while precise steering comfortably communicates direct road feedback to the driver, whether on the motorway or winding country roads. These positive driving characteristics are enhanced by highly efficient brakes, which make the new Mazda6 Wagon one of the best in its class for brake deceleration even at full load.

The Mazda6 Wagon possesses an extremely rigid safety cell, front airbags and front side airbags, plus head and shoulder airbags which protect passengers in the front and back of the vehicle against injuries in side impact collisions.

The new Mazda6 line-up has been expanded with two new body styles and two all-new diesel engines. The elegant hatchback Mazda6 Sport will appeal to customers looking for a more sporty model, while the stylish Mazda6 Wagon will appeal to drivers who put a premium on spaciousness and interior flexibility. The two diesel drivetrains represent state-of-the-art diesel technology, while offering the optimal combination of driving pleasure and low fuel consumption.

Launched in April this year, the new Mazda6 Sedan appeals to European drivers with its dynamic design, sporty handling characteristics and spacious interior. Now Mazda is adding to this with the racy hatchback Mazda6 Sport and the spacious Wagon. These additions to the Mazda6 range demonstrate that the Japanese manufacturer is focusing intensively on the individual tastes and specific requirements of European drivers.

The exterior design of the two new body styles shows the close affinity with the existing Sedan version. The new models have the distinctive Mazda face, with an expressive five-point grille, striking air intake openings in the front bumper spoiler and elegantly thin headlamps with clear glass. Seen from the side, the new Mazda6 Sport does its name justice. The acute angle of the back window and the elegant profile of the C-pillar give the car a dynamic look, and make for a lower and more sporty appearance. The new Mazda6 Wagon symbolises sportiness in another form, with a relatively acute rear window line and blackened B-pillars to give the car an elegant yet sporty appearance, despite its spacious cabin. The rear of both models is dominated by the clear glass lamp assembly, of similar design to the front headlamps. These wrap around into the side panels and provide a fluid optical link between the boot trim and the rear fender.

The interior of both models is also designed in typical Mazda6 style. The passenger and luggage compartments are larger than their sporty exteriors might indicate. The driver and passengers can enjoy comfortable and stress-free driving on long trips due to the use of tasteful, high-quality materials, the aesthetic yet functional styling of the instruments, plus the firm, comfortable and lavishly constructed seats.

The luggage compartments of both new models are extremely large, with outstanding capacities of 492 litres for the Mazda6 Sport and 505 litres for the Mazda6 Wagon. Both versions are fitted with Mazda's unique "Karakuri" rear seat system, which rapidly folds the rear seats into a level load floor. This is operated by a lever inside the luggage compartment, which releases the backrests. The seats automatically drop down and the backrests fold over them, without the headrests having to be removed.

The large boot volume is in part the result of the patented Mazda E-type multilink rear axle. Its compact design not only saves space but provides both new Mazda6 models - in combination with the double A-arm front axle design - with excellent roadholding qualities. A wide track width and low centre of gravity ensure sporty handling, while precise steering provides excellent road feedback, whether on the motorway or on twisting country roads. Powerful and efficient brakes enhance both models' handling characteristics, and make Mazda6 Sport and Wagon two of the best cars in their class for braking deceleration.

The two other significant developments can be found under the bonnet of all three body styles - for there are now two modern diesel drivetrains available, in addition to the three aluminium alloy four-cylinder petrol engines, which have been available since the launch of the Mazda6 Sedan. Both are two-litre second generation common-rail direct injection engines - one with a power output of 89 kW/121 hp while the high power version delivers 100 kW/136 hp. Both engines have four valves per cylinder and combine the classic strengths of a diesel engine (low fuel consumption, high torque at low engine speeds) with characteristics normally associated with petrol engines (lively driving performance, driving comfort, operating smoothness, low emissions). Both diesel engines achieve Euro Stage III emissions ratings.

The existing double overhead cam petrol engines have four valves per cylinder, and come in three displacements: the 1.8-litre produces 88 kW/120 hp, the 2.0-litre 104 kW/141 hp, and the 2.3-litre 122 kw/166 hp. Like the Mazda6 Sedan, the new Sport and Wagon models are available with an optional four-speed automatic transmission for the 2.0-litre petrol version.

Safety features for both new Mazda6 body styles are equal to those of the Sedan. Crash protection is provided by an extremely rigid passenger cell with an ingenious structural design for the distribution and absorption of impact energy; while passive safety features include airbags, side airbags in the front, and head and shoulder airbags to protect driver and passengers in case of side impact.

A Coupé with five doors

The new Mazda6 Sport is based on a long tradition of sporty fastbacks within the company. It is a sporty, stylish five-door hatchback model that has a hint of a coupé. However, the tailgate and flexible load space give it qualities to rival some wagons, while it still possesses all the characteristics of the new Mazda6 model line up.

A coupé, some people say, is an elegant way to pay more money for less car. In order to achieve an appealing form, designers usually sacrifice not only two doors, but also a lot of space. Headroom and luggage space are reduced - but the price is usually increased. Mazda fastback models have traditionally been the exception to this rule, for they have only looked like a coupé from the outside. When it comes to everyday practicality and interior spaciousness, they have always been nearly equal to saloon models, while any increase in price for the Mazda's more sporty design and large hatchback have always been kept within to a minimum. Sporty hatchback versions of the 626 family have long been an integral part of Mazda's range, while the 323F helped the fastback break into the compact class in 1989.

The Mazda6 Sport marks another significant step for, with its modified roof line, fundamental saloon design cues have been accentuated in hatchback form. The acute angle of the rear window and the elegant design of the C-pillar give the car a dynamic look, and make for a lower and more sporty appearance.

Traditionally at Mazda, this sporty look has never been made at the cost of comfort - and the new Mazda Sport is no exception. Four, wide-opening doors allow easy passenger access, while the large tailgate opening makes it easy to load the large 492-litre boot. The dimensions of the rear passenger compartment are, with the exception of a mere 5 mm reduction in headroom, exactly the same as for the Mazda6 Sedan. Like the Wagon, the new Mazda6 Sport also comes as standard with the "Karakuri" system that allows easy folding of the rear seats. By using two levers inside the luggage department, the back seats are automatically folded flat without the need to remove the headrests or manually move the seat cushions. Four practical hooks integrated into the luggage compartment prevent smaller cargo items from sliding around.

Visually, the interior is identical to that of the Sedan. It has a feeling of spaciousness, a sporty cockpit plus quality trim and fabric. The comfortably firm seats provide a stress-free environment, even on long trips. Air conditioning is standard, along with various other features including electric windows, electrically adjustable side mirrors and numerous storage compartments.

The new Mazda6 Sport's tight suspension, tuned for driving comfort, guarantees optimal driving quality. Double front A-arms and a multilink rear axle arrangement, combined with wide track width and low centre of gravity, give the car sporty handling characteristics, while its precise steering delivers optimal tyre-to-road contact, whether on the motorway or country roads. Its dynamic qualities are further enhanced by powerful brakes, which make the new Mazda6 Sport one of the best in its class for braking deceleration. The extremely stiff passenger cell with an ingenious structural design for the distribution and absorption of impact energy, front airbags, side airbags in the front, plus head and shoulder airbags, provide a high amount of protection under all conditions.

Good things regularly come in threes. With the new Mazda 6 a special trio of qualities --dynamic design, high performance engines and agile handling -- set the car apart from the rest of the mid-size car sector.

Equally Mazda's three traditional core values, embracing quality, safety and reliability are embodied in the new model, with the trilogy theme extending to three body styles, a classic saloon, a sporty hatchback-fastback and from this autumn the spacious Sport Wagon/estate car.

The Mazda6's significance for the company in creating a new, pivotal range, extends to the brand's entry into a new era.

Mark Fields, President of Mazda Motor Corporation, declares: "The Mazda6 is the first link in a whole chain of newcomers representing a return to our roots. Dynamic sports cars such as the RX-7 and MX-5 have moulded our image. We will continue this tradition with the Mazda6 and numerous other newcomers in coming years."

Stylish Mazda6 leads from the front

The front end styling of the Mazda6 range -- saloon, hatchback and estate -- makes a bold brand statement. It is characterised by the five-point grille, distinctive air inlet apertures in the aerodynamic front spoiler, and slim, clear glass headlights.

The Mazda6's instantly recognisable profile has a sporting, active look, emphasised by a steeply raked windscreen and flared wheel arches. The integrity of design themes continues with a rear view dominated by clear glass tail lights, which complement and match their front headlight counterparts.

They wrap seamlessly round the rear side panels to create a flowing line of sight from nose to tail. This generates a dynamic, active, external impression and stance, from all angles, declaring Mazda's new style and presence in the midsize model marketplace.

This redefinition of Mazda's design virtues is sustained in the Mazda6's interior. Much more spacious than the car's compact sporting exterior implies, the cabin incorporates tasteful, understated, high-quality materials.

Complementary form and function come together with the functional, tactile sports steering wheel, chrome-rimmed, ergonomically efficient instrumentation, and the brushed aluminium centre console.

The Mazda6 development engineers have paid careful attention to passenger comfort: The seats are of a sophisticated ergonomic design with pleasantly firm upholstery, providing both lateral support when cornering and comfort on long journeys. There is plenty of storage space for small personal items in the dashboard, the centre console and the doors, and a unique innovation provides plenty of storage space in the boot even for bulky luggage.

Mazda6: The Karakuri technique

Inspired by the Japanese Karakuri folding dolls, the Mazda design engineers have developed a pioneering system for expanding the already roomy boot as required. By simply operating a lever in the side of the boot, the rear seats can be converted into a flat loading floor. The seats drop down, the arm rests fold over them, and the head rests do not have to be removed - a fine example of Japanese culture translated into everyday convenience.

The impressive boot capacity is the result of the "E-type" multilink rear axle patented by Mazda, ensuring excellent road holding thanks to its compact, space-saving construction combined with the double wishbone front axle. The wide track width and low centre of gravity guarantee responsive driving dynamics, and the precise steering conveys a reassuringly direct contact with the road surface both on the motorway and winding country roads. The positive handling of this front-wheel drive car is complemented by an excellent braking system, an active safety asset, that puts the Mazda6 amongst the best in its class.

Mazda6: A choice of three petrol engines

The comprehensive range of engines on offer matches the varying demands of customers in this class. The Mazda6 will be launched with three state-of-the-art light-alloy four-cylinder petrol engines ranging from the economical 1.8-litre unit to the powerful 2.3-litre counterpart with sequential valve timing. All engines have four valves per cylinder, and twin overhead camshafts, delivering either 88 kW/120 hp (1.8 litre), 104 kW/141 hp (2.0 litre) or 122 kW/166 hp (2.3 litre). All the power plants can be matched to the three body versions, maintaining the car's trilogy theme.

There is a choice of three gearboxes. In addition to the standard five-speed manual gearbox and optional automatic four-speed transmission, a sequential "Activematic" gearbox - involving a five-speed automatic with manual override -- will be available for the four-wheel drive version coming to the market from the fourth quarter of 2002 .

The Mazda6 will also benefit from a modern 2.0 litre diesel engines from that date. A 2.0 litre unit featuring second generation common rail injection and rated at either 88 kW/120 hp or 100 kW/136 hp will complete the powertrain choice.

Mazda6: Safety and quality is standard

Mazda's design engineers have not compromised in the area of safety:An extremely rigid passenger cage and an ingenious structure for distributing and absorbing impact energy contribute to high levels of passive safety, as do the front airbags, side airbags for front occupants, and the "head and shoulder" airbags to provide side protection for both front and rear seat passengers in the event of impact.

The quality of workmanship in the Mazda6 marks a continuing enhancement in the traditionally acclaimed level of Mazda quality. Refined production technology is manifested in minimal gaps between bodywork panels, creating an overall impression of integrated quality, fit and finish that extends to the interior. In essence, sports styling, a well equipped quality interior, a comprehensive safety package, a wide choice of modern engines, a safe, agile chassis and high standards of workmanship are the hallmarks of the new Mazda6. Mazda President Mark Fields adds another crucial dimension: "The Mazda6 is not just a successful new contribution to the midsize vehicle class. It is also an expression of Mazda's new product philosophy."The European rollout of the Mazda6 saloon and hatchback is planned during this summer, with diesel, estate and four-wheel drive versions arriving in the autumn.

The Mazda Atenza or Mazda6 is a mid-size car from the Japanese carmaker Mazda. The name Atenza (which means Attention) is used only in Japan; the Mazda6 moniker is used everywhere else in the world. The Atenza/Mazda6 replaced the Capella/626, and has sold over one million units worldwide since its introduction, making it the fastest Mazda vehicle to reach the one million mark. [1]

The model lineup consists of a 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback, and a 5-door station wagon. Drivetrain combinations include the Mazda Z engine in configurations of 1.8 L, 2.0 L and 2.3 L, with a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission (with sequential-automatic option, dubbed the "4-Speed Sport AT"). In some markets a 3.0 L Duratec 30 V6 engine is also available with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (with sequential-automatic option, dubbed the "6-Speed Sport AT"). European versions also feature a four-cylinder turbodiesel. In its first years, the Mazda6 came with a 4-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic "AT" or a 5-speed manual transmission.

During 2005, a 6-speed automatic became available on the 6-cylinder models, while the 4-cylinder sedan received a 5-speed manually shiftable automatic. Power is directed to the front wheels only in most markets, although full-time all wheel drive models are available in Japan and Europe. Not all configurations are available in all areas - for example, the Mazda6 as released in Australia was a four-cylinder car only, while the last 626 which it replaced was a four or six-cylinder car.

Like the 626 before it, Ford is using the Mazda6's CD3 platform as the basis for a number of other vehicles, including the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ, Lincoln MKX, and a range of SUVs and minivans. Ford also plans to offer a hybrid powertrain on the platform. For its part, Mazda themselves refer to this chassis as either the GG (sedan/hatch) or GY (wagon) series - following the previous 626/Capella in its GF/GW series.

North American Mazda6 production is handled at the AutoAlliance International plant which is a joint venture between Ford and Mazda. The first Mazda6 rolled off this Flat Rock, Michigan assembly line on October 1, 2002, one month after 626 production ended. Hofu plants in Hiroshima produce the Mazda6 for Europe and some Asia markets, including Australia. There are also satellite plants building Mazda6 models in China and Thailand for their respective local markets. (Ford owns a controlling interest in Mazda.)

Mazda6 MPS

The 2006 Mazdaspeed Atenza (known as Mazdaspeed 6 in North America and Mazda6 MPS in Europe and Australia) is a high-performance version of the Mazda6. It features a turbocharged version of the 2.3 L MZR I4 which produces 272 PS (200 kW) (European version is detuned to 260 PS (191 kW); the North American version, at 274 hp (204 kW), is more powerful). This 2.3 L DISI turbocharged engine features direct fuel injection and conforms to the new Euro 5 emissions standards. It has a revised front fascia with a raised hood, a 6-speed transmission, and all wheel drive. The all wheel drive system uses Mazda's Active Torque Split computer-based control which routes up to 50% of the power to the rear wheels depending on driving conditions. Mazda currently has no plans to enter the car into rally racing, and the Mazdaspeed Atenza could be meant to compete with its Japanese-made rival, the Subaru Legacy GT and similar sport sedans like the rally-car-derived Subaru Impreza WRX STi and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.

Originally scheduled to be launched in June 2005, the Mazdaspeed Atenza was delayed until November. In North America, the Mazdaspeed6 comes in two trim levels; the "Sport" trim with cloth interior and standard key entry and ignition; and the "Grand Touring" trim with leather interior, keyless entry/ignition, and an optional DVD navigation (of which the Canadian model lacks DVD navigation). Automatic climate control is standard, as is a 200 W Bose stereo system featuring 7 speakers and a 9 in. subwoofer in addition to an in-dash 6-disc CD changer. A sunroof with moonroof feature is optional on the Grand Touring trim.

Although Mazda estimates 0-60 mph times to be 6.2 seconds, recent independent tests by automotive journalists have suggested that the actual numbers might range between 5.4-6 seconds (with DSC deactivated).

Superior driving performance, excellent comfort, generous interior space, optimal traction and high levels of driving safety—these are the qualities that characterize the newest model in the Mazda6 range. With its smooth and powerful 2.3-litre engine, modern five-speed automatic transmission, and permanent all-wheel drive transmission technology, the Mazda6 AWD is a worthy leader for the successful Mazda6 line-up.

With its dynamic visual and technical attributes, Mazda6 meets the needs of demanding drivers of mid-sized cars. But some customers want even more: more comfort, more traction and more active safety features. It is for these drivers that Mazda developed the AWD.

For this all-wheel drive model, the power is transmitted permanently to the road surface via all four wheels, which provides optimal traction on wet, slippery roads, and enhances both safety and driving enjoyment. An electronic system distributes power output between the front and rear axles according to driving behaviour and surface characteristics, thus optimizing driving stability and fuel consumption.

Mazda6 AWD's new five-speed "activematic" automatic transmission provides the ideal combination of refinement and sportiness. Activematic's first three gears are relatively short, to provide dynamic acceleration. Gears four and five are clearly longer, contributing to lower noise levels and reduced fuel consumption. If the driver chooses to shift manually a second shift gutter is available that operates simply by touching the gear lever. A special sensor constantly monitors the tilt angle of the vehicle and is integrated into the control electronics of the transmission system to provide additional driving comfort. This system not only effectively prevents sudden shifting on long upgrades, it automatically selects a lower gear on downhill stretches and supplies major support for the braking system.

The exterior design of the Mazda6 AWD is nearly identical to that of the Mazda6 Sport Estate. Its five-point grille, the striking air intake openings in the front bumper spoiler and the elegantly thin headlamps of clear glass emphasize its sporty character, as do its silhouette with relatively acute angle of the rear window and black B-pillar. The rear end design of the car is dominated by the rear lamps—similar in design to the front headlamps— and which wrap around into the side body and form a visual link between the boot trim panel and the rear side panelling.

The interior has been designed in typical Mazda6 style. The dimensions of passenger and luggage compartment are more generous than its sporty appearance indicates. The use of tastefully chosen, high quality materials, aesthetic and functional dials and gauges, as well as the comfortably firm upholstery of the seats, form the basis for an interior ambience that ensures that driver and passengers are comfortable on long journeys. There is also plenty of space for luggage. The Mazda6 AWD offers a capacity of 490 litres, which can be expanded to 1697 litres once the rear seats are folded. The interior measurements of the load space are equally impressive with a length of 1906 mm and width of 1365 mm, to make it one of the largest in this class.

This has been achieved by the use of the patented Mazda E-type multi-link rear axle that combines with the front axle assembly with double A-arms to deliver outstanding road holding capabilities. The car's wide wheel track and its low centre of gravity ensure sporty handling characteristics, while the car's precise steering transmits a reassuringly direct contact to the driving surface, both on the motorway and on twisting country roads. Highly efficient brakes make the Mazda6 one of the best in its class for brake deceleration.

The Mazda6 AWD is powered by the 119 kW (162 hp) 2.3-litre petrol engine, which employs sequential valve timing (S-VT) to optimise power output, fuel consumption and emissions, as well as the engine's torque characteristics. Two balancer shafts help the four cylinder unit to provide optimal operating smoothness.

The Mazda6 AWD has outstanding safety attributes, including an extremely rigid safety cell which is an ingenious system for the distribution and absorption of collision energy. Passive safety features include front airbags, front side airbags and so-called head and shoulder airbags which protect passengers in the front and rear of the vehicle against injuries in side impact collisions. Active safety features include a modern, four-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD), brake assistance (EBA), dynamic stability control (DSC) and automatic ride-height control.

The Mazda RX-8 is a sports car manufactured by Mazda Motor Corporation. It first appeared in 2001 at the North American International Auto Show. It is the successor to the RX-7 and like its predecessors in the RX range it is powered by a Wankel rotary engine.

Design

The RX-8 was designed as a front mid-mounted, rear-wheel drive 2+2 coupé. The car has a 50/50 weight distribution, achieved by mounting the engine behind the front axle. Weight is trimmed through the use of materials such as aluminium and plastic for the body panels and a carbon fiber composite driveshaft.

The car features a pair of rear-hinged "freestyle" doors (also known as suicide doors) in order to provide easier access to the rear seats. The RX-8 has no B-pillar between the front and rear doors, with the leading edge of the rear door acting as a 'virtual pillar' to maintain structural rigidity. Because of the overlapped design, the rear doors can only be opened when the front doors are open.

Powertrain

The RX-8 is powered by a 1.3 L naturally-aspirated RENESIS rotary engine, which features newly designed side intake and exhaust ports. The engine is smaller and lighter than previous rotaries, primarily due to the lack of a turbocharger and associated parts.

The engine is designed in various configurations for different models, but in its most powerful setup develops 250 PS (246.58 hp, 184 kW) at 8,500 rpm with a redline at 9,000 rpm and fuel cut-off at 9,500 rpm. It won the International Engine of the Year and Best New Engine awards in 2003 and holds the "2.5 to 3 liter" size award for 2003 and 2004.

The power is delivered to the rear wheels via a 5- or 6-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic through a limited slip differential.

In late 2003 Mazda issued a press release stating that the actual horsepower of the RX-8 was up to 5% less than previously advertised. Mazda offered to buy back any of the affected vehicles sold in the United States. Those who chose to keep the cars were given other incentives such as free maintenance, parts, and accessories.

In August 2006, Mazda announced that a problem with oil leakage has led to the engines in many RX-8s having to be replaced. Mazda will voluntarily recall all 2004 and 2005 RX-8s, as well as some 2006s, and subject them to a vacuum test. All engines that fail the test will be replaced, as they "would rather replace the engine than have the dealer crack them open."

Models

The RX-8 is available in various models in different markets around the world. Standard models include:6-speed manual "High Power" with an output of between 170 kW and 177 kW and a 9,000 rpm redline (Japanese models produce 184 kW due to the availability of higher octane fuel)5-speed manual "Standard Power" tuned to 141 kW with the redline reduced to 7,500 rpm4-speed automatic tuned to 141 kW in some markets, while the U.S. automatic is claimed at 197 SAE net hp (158 kW)

Shinka/Evolve

Mazda introduced a special Shinka edition to the U.S. market in 2005, and to the UK market in 2006 where it was branded as the Evolve. New features included Shinka badges on the B-pillar, new paint colours (Black Cherry Mica, Copper Red and Phantom Blue), re-styled mirrors, alcantara-trimmed leather seats, updated component materials, and enhanced chassis and suspension tuning. Power output remained unchanged from the standard models.

Hydrogen RE

At the 2004 North American International Auto Show, Mazda unveiled the RX-8 Hydrogen RE concept car, designed to run on either hydrogen or gasoline. In February 2006, Mazda revealed that it would start leasing a dual-fuel RX-8 to commercial customers in Japan, and in March 2006 announced its first two customers, claiming the first fleet deliveries of a dual hydrogen/gasoline production car.

Awards

To mid-2006 the RX-8 has won at least 37 international motoring awards including the 2003 Japanese Car of the Year, Australia's Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 2003, the 2004 Singapore Car of the Year, the 2004 US Best Sports Car, and several UK Best Car Awards. It was also named on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 2004, 2005, and 2006.